"Nervous?" he asked softly, his voice breaking the silence like a gentle chord. His tone carried warmth, but there was an undertone of something deeper—protectiveness, and affection.
Eliana turned to him, caught in the kindness of his gaze. For a heartbeat, she forgot how to breathe.
"A little," she admitted, twisting her hands in her lap, her worn jeans and simple blouse a stark contrast to the car's luxury interior. "It's been over a month since I've seen him in person. Phone calls aren't the same."
"You'll be great," he reassured, reaching over to give her hand a quick, supportive squeeze. "And remember, I'm here if you need me."
